Bus operators are prepared to invest $2.3 million to $112.6 million in improving their services under their new franchises.
Citybus, New Lantao Bus and KMB, whose franchises will expire by June next year, March 2007 and July 2007 respectively, have committed to installing 'black boxes' and ensuring buses along busy routes comply with the Euro II emission standard or above. Devices will also be fitted to cut pollutants such as hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.
All installation work is expected to be complete by 2009.
Citybus and KMB have also agreed to cut bus trips on specific busy routes by 5 to 9 per cent by the end of 2007. A total of 640 trips will be taken off busy routes in Central, Admiralty, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay, while the number of trips on Nathan Road will be trimmed by 150.
The government has also pressed the three companies to install more electric panels for bus information at major terminals, and to provide bus-stop announcements on all buses.